Airen

Outshining all other white vine varieties in the world as far as vineyard acreage—though that is also because lack of water forces low density planting—Airén is ultimately an important Spanish wine grape. Airén vines prefer training into low bushes, which make them resistant to drought. Used traditionally in La Mancha and Valdepeñas for blending with the Tempranillo, it is becoming more fashionable when vinified as a crisp, youthful, single varietal white.

Perfect Food Pairings for Airen

Grilled sardines & peppers, prawns in garlic & lemon, spicy sauteed broccoli, pesto pasta, Spanish omelette

Sommelier Secret for Airen

In the Canary Islands, Airén goes by Burra Blanca (meaning "white donkey"), and takes to blending with Malvasia, Breval and Listan Blanco (Palomino).